Posted in Adirondacks, General
So you’ve just finished a rafting trip on The Hudson and are wondering what could possibly top it? An Adirondack hike is a great way to take the pace down a notch and take in even more of the beauty that this area offers. It’s hard to narrow the area’s hikes down to just a few but we’ve chosen three of our favorites hikes within an hour of North Creek.
Balm of Gilead is a half day hike that is accessible for everyone in the family. It’s a 2-mile round trip hike with a huge payoff. It overlooks 13th Lake and has plenty of room at the summit for a picnic lunch. Balm of Gilead is also an excellent snowshoe trip in the winter time. It’s not too long and follows a stream bed the whole way up which makes for easy walking in the winter and a beautiful mossy trek in the summer. When you’re finished, head into Garnet Hill Lodge for a hearty dinner and a drink to go with it!
While you’re on your Hudson River rafting trip, your guide will likely tell you about OK Slip Falls–at over 200 feet it’s one of the tallest waterfalls in the Adirondack Park. It empties into the Hudson Gorge, though you can’t see it from the river. You can hike into the waterfall, which is about a 6.5 mile round trip, or continue down to the river for an afternoon swim. Since it’s not a mountain it doesn’t have a huge elevation gain, but it is fairly rigorous because of it’s length. Plan on close to a full day for this one.
Blue Mountain is a classic Adirondack hike. It’s a 3.9 mile roundtrip hike that’s pretty popular. The best time to do this one may be in the morning because it is so heavily trafficked. It’s got panoramic views and a fire tower to climb if you’re feeling adventurous. Pack a lunch and head up to the fire tower if you want a lunch with a view (and some adrenaline to go with it). On your way south, stop at the Adirondack Museum to learn more about the Adirondacks and the Hudson River Gorge!
The best part? We can help you out! If there’s a mountain you’ve been jonesing to hike but don’t know where to start, give us a call! We can put together a guided hike or even a multi-sport weekend for you or your family. Call us today at 1-888-454-8433 to book an Adirondack adventure!